Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. What an opportunity! Here goes:

1) Assume no funding increase (fixed funds), what would be the most significant priority shift that occur in city schools?

2) Who is more important to school success - teacher or principal (and I know that it's a combination, but if you have to choose)?

3) What does the ideal teacher's schedule for one day look like - high school, middle school, elementary (or which ever level you choose to focus)?

Thanks again, good luck with the certification!

I wonder for how many years this teachers can hold onto her enthusiams? "she loves surprising them with simple facts they should have learned years ago". may wear thin when repeated year after year. Teaching in a school infamous for violence may become impossible after an especially promising student is either killed or his parents move to escape gang violence.

did the school system apply a visa or green card for you, and how did you go about it?

The article in today's Sun about Dr. Denisova is inspiring and shows what can be accomplished when a dedicated, well-qualified, passionate educator ignores the pressure around her to be lazy and steps up for her children. And by "well-qualified" I absolutely do not mean the superficial qualifications listed in NCLB; rather, I mean somebody who knows their subject, knows how to reach the children, and has "it" - that "it" is something that can never be taught in an education school - it is innate, from within. From reading the article, the good Dr. certainly seems to have "it"!

What an outrage that the BCPSS gave her such a difficult time in renewing her contract. After having worked in BCPSS for a few years as a teacher, however, I can say I'm not surprised. Laziness permeates many levels of the bureaucracy and often the children are the ones who suffer as their interests are not held as the #1 priority. I am hopeful Dr. Alonso will be able to change that culture.

I do want to comment on Ms. Vickroy's post. Her comments are the epitome of what brings down many a bright, young teacher. One of the best pieces of advice I was ever given is "stay out of the Teacher's Lounge!" Yes Ms. Vickroy, the school culture is challenging and tests the patience of the best educator; rather than speak to that, let's find more effective ways to support our newest teachers so that spark they bring doesn't die. I'm assuming you are an educator Ms. Vickroy and I would plead with you to think back to when you first started teaching and try to bring that back in your life as an educator now. I am certain you will be happier, your students will reflect your bright attitude, and the new teachers who work around you will surely appreciate the positive atmosphere you help create in your corner of the building.

Dr. Denisova - my prayers are with you and it is my hope that you will never lose the fire. You are in a very difficult situation...God has placed you there for the kids entrusted to your care. God bless you for accepting the challenge and doing a great job at it!

I've found that the best teachers fall into one of two camps:
-Those that love the subject they teach, and want to share it with others
-Those that love teaching itself, and teach whatever it is they know best

With which of the two (if either) would you most identify? And why?

Dear Katia,
I'm staff writer of the Rusiian-American news-paper "Novoye Russkoye Slovo" based in New York. It's the oldest Russian language news-paper in the world.
So, I've read the article about you. It would make a lot of sense for Russian readers. Of course, it requires adaptation for Russian mentality, and it requires your picture. Could you, please, e-mail me your picture.
My address: vchernomor@nrs.com

P.S. I don't know, but if I need additional facts about yours may I ask you some questions?
Vladimir

Дорогая Катя!
Надеюсь я все ясно изложил. Пожалуйства, посодействуйте. Страна должна знать своих героев:)